Cerebellar vein

Cerebellar vein

Illustration of the cerebellar veins from Gray's Anatomy

The cerebellar vein is a significant vein in the human brain. It is responsible for draining blood from the cerebellum, the part of the brain that plays a vital role in motor control, coordination, and balance.

Structure

The cerebellar vein is divided into three main branches: the superior cerebellar vein, the inferior cerebellar vein, and the great cerebellar vein. Each of these veins has a unique path and function within the cerebellum.

Superior cerebellar vein

The superior cerebellar vein drains the superior surface of the cerebellum. It runs laterally to the tentorium cerebelli, a fold of dura mater, and ends in the straight sinus or the transverse sinus.

Inferior cerebellar vein

The inferior cerebellar vein drains the inferior surface of the cerebellum. It runs along the posterior inferior cerebellar artery and ends in the sigmoid sinus or the jugular bulb.

Great cerebellar vein

The great cerebellar vein is a large vein that drains the anterior part of the cerebellum. It runs along the middle cerebellar peduncle and ends in the basilar plexus.

Function

The primary function of the cerebellar veins is to drain deoxygenated blood from the cerebellum and return it to the heart. This process is crucial for maintaining the health and function of the cerebellum.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities or damage to the cerebellar veins can lead to serious conditions such as cerebellar stroke, cerebellar hemorrhage, and cerebellar infarction. These conditions can cause symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, loss of balance, and difficulty with fine motor skills.

See also

• Cerebellum
• Vein
• Brain
• Cerebrovascular disease